Creative World

Week of February 27, 2012

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New — 2012 CATALOG www.abovealladvertising.net/catalog-2012.html

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Hertz Introduces EXPRESSRENT Kiosks

Hertz Corp. has launched ExpressRent™ kiosks, the first large scale kiosk deployment in the U.S. using a live agent assistant via video chat. “More and more consumers are demanding the convenience of self-service options,” said Mark Frissora, CEO, Hertz Corp. “By introducing these innovations, we're allowing customers to take control of their journey by giving them faster, more flexible options for renting and returning vehicles. In addition, we’re able to drive greater operational efficiencies while expanding the Hertz network with our ExpressRent™ kiosk program.”

Hertz is the first car rental company to now offer both airport and neighborhood location customers the ability to rent cars through a live, face-to-face video kiosk. Customers using ExpressRent™ kiosks can complete an entire rental transaction while seeing and hearing a live remote rental representative. ExpressRent™ kiosks minimize customer wait times, accept payment with a debit or credit card, validate a customer's drivers license and print the rental agreement, while providing customers with a full-service experience. ExpressRent™ kiosks are available in Hertz airport and Hertz Local Edition locations along with partnering auto body shops and hotels. (Web site) www.hertz.com

REI Opens SoHo Location In NYC

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.), a national retailer providing quality outdoor gear and clothing, has opened REI SoHo in the Puck Building, its first location in New York City. The 35,000-square-foot store will outfit customers with the top brands of outdoor gear and apparel on three levels, including its exclusive award-winning REI brand and Novara bike products. Upon opening, the main floor will feature camping, climbing, cycling, snow sports and travel products, while men's, women's and kid's clothing and footwear will be housed on the cellar level.

"Our first store in New York City is the keystone for our six Tri-State locations working together to outfit the abundance of outdoor enthusiasts and visitors in the greater New York City area," said Tim Spangler, REI's senior vice president of Retail. REI partnered with Callison, a global architecture and design firm, to incorporate elements of the natural world and historical items that were reclaimed from the Puck Building into the retail space. Significant design elements include: The building's brick walls and ceilings, and steel columns were exposed to honor the original structure as it appeared in the late 1890's. A central stairwell connects the main floor with two sub-grade shopping levels, open to the public for the first time. Wood from the original construction was repurposed into the store's cashier counters and canopies, display tables, chair railings, mirrors, wall coverings, signage and more. Display tables throughout the store incorporate additional historic items found in the Puck Building. REI SoHo will house bike and ski shop services on two levels-a quick stop on the main floor and full shop on the sub-cellar level. A rental department will offer seasonal gear for New Yorkers to try outdoor activities. The store's community space will allow REI and its local nonprofit partners to host outdoor classes, presentations and events.

"Our SoHo store brings the outdoor expertise that our customers expect from REI directly to New York consumers," said Les Hatton, REI SoHo store manager. "From the bike and ski stop on the main level to home delivery services, REI is making it easier for these urban adventurers to enjoy the outdoors." (Web site) www.rei.com

D3 Unveils LED Display For GUESS Flagship Store

D3 LED, LLC (D3), a world leader in specialized LED digital display applications, has created a custom LED digital display for GUESS brand’s new 13,000 sq. ft. flagship store in New York City. The 143,360-pixel screen, encased in a sleek aluminum frame, measures 9 feet 4 inches high by 6 feet 4 inches wide, and is capable of delivering live and pre-recorded video, plus photos and animations. Jason Barak, Managing Partner, D3, said, “Our LED digital display serves as an integral part of the store’s brand experience for consumers.” (Web site) www.d3led.com

Brooks Sports Displays Promote DNA Technology In New Running Shoes

Brooks Sports created a new tech display that introduces its DNA technology. DNA technology is unique in its ability to instantly adapt to a runner's size and stride. However, it happens inside the shoe's sole and can't be seen, so Brooks sought a way to illustrate and demonstrate the technology to runners.

Brooks turned to creative partner, Palo Alto, CA-based Concept Designs to create a tech demo that would tell the DNA story. Concept Designs created a wall display that included an actual DNA sample that customers could feel. The display also accommodates an interchangeable graphic that details how the technology works and its benefits to the runner. A powdercoated steel frame forms the structural heart of the display. The DNA sample is sandwiched between the frame and an acrylic tab which extends out from the frame. An oval cutout in the acrylic allows the central part of the sample to protrude slightly and invites customer interaction.

An interchangeable printed graphic is inserted behind the steel face and is held by the rest of the acrylic component, which extends behind the face. The Brooks logo is silkscreened along the top of the frame.The display can mount to slat wall, grid wall, or slat grid. The interchangeable graphic invites international use as each country can easily insert its own graphic card. Brooks retailers and distributors welcomed the new display as an additional "silent salesperson". Peter Mannos, Brooks' Director of Retail Marketing, said, "By encouraging customers to feel the DNA technology for themselves and learn about its advantages, this display provides both interactivity and information. A great combination!" (Web site) www.popconcepts.com

First Solar Homes Power Nissan LEAF Electric Car

City Ventures Homes are "plugging into history" as the first solar homes in the U.S. to power the Nissan LEAF electric car. All City Ventures earth-friendly residences feature garages that are pre-wired for electric cars. The City Ventures earth-friendly neighborhoods, comprising over 190 homes, represent the largest collection of new, solar, no-gas homes in the United States. They are currently under construction in the California cities of Signal Hill, Santa Barbara and Brea. Prices for these homes start in the high $200,000s. Integrated with each residence, City Ventures homes feature solar power and energy-efficient design, bringing energy bills to near net zero. The coupling of high-tech solar home with advanced electric car completes the circuit, allowing low-cost, low-carbon, gasoline-free living.

"A City Ventures residence puts homeowners farther on the path to net-zero energy independence than any other new home on the market," said Herb Gardner, president of City Ventures' Homebuilding Division. "Our Signal Hill Collection is the first opportunity to see these homes and their pre-wired LEAF technology in action."

As part of the company's ultimate mandate to build only net-zero-energy communities, a large portion of the power required to operate each home is generated on-site through built-in solar panels. The solar energy, combined with the most-efficient materials and appliances available, make a City Ventures' Green Key home the most sustainable new-construction residence available. All Green Key homes will exceed state-mandated Title 24 environmental efficiency standards by at least 30%. They are LEED Gold level and Energy Star-certified.

Sustainable Apparel Company Opens First Retail Store In Morgantown, WV

SustainU, a leading producer of apparel using fabrics made from 100% recycled materials that are manufactured in the USA, recently opened its first retail store in Morgantown, WV. The store will feature SustainU's line of t-shirts, hoodies and polos made from 100% recycled material and manufactured entirely in the United States.

"We are the only apparel company in the United States that uses only recycled material and American labor to manufacture its clothing," said Chris Yura, CEO and founder of SustainU. "It is important for future generations that businesses become more sustainable. This is why we are trying to bring back jobs to the US and do it in an environmentally responsible way." Using recycled cotton scraps and plastic bottles, SustainU partners with factories like the Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind (WSIFB) to manufacture its apparel.

Walgreens Launches Nation's Largest Retail Mobile Coupon Program With Point-Of-Sale Scanning At More Than 7,700 Stores Throughout The U.S.

In what many expect to be a breakout holiday season for mobile shopping, Walgreens is adding scannable coupons to its award-winning mobile applications, offering exclusive discounts to its smartphone customers beginning "Black Friday," Nov. 25. Coupons will range in value from 50 cents to $5 and will be good toward a variety of products including beauty items, gifts, consumables and everyday essentials, such as diapers. Scannable coupons provide optimal convenience with no clipping or printing required. Cashiers simply scan a coupon straight from a user's smartphone. With mobile scanning capabilities at all of the more than 7,700 Walgreens stores nationwide, this is the largest retail mobile coupon program in the U.S.

"We're enhancing the shopping experience by giving our mobile customers greater convenience and exclusive savings during the holiday season," said Sona Chawla, Walgreens president of E-commerce. "Through our mobile application, no matter where people are, they can find an easy way to save next time they come to Walgreens -- just download the app and you're ready to shop."

ECOtality To Install EV Charging Stations At Select Walmart Stores

ECOtality, a leader in clean electric transportation and storage technologies, and Walmart will partner to install Blink Pedestal electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at select Walmart stores in California, Oregon, and Washington for The EV Project. "Known for its low prices and ongoing sustainability initiatives, Walmart is an ideal host for Blink EV charging stations," said Jonathan Read, CEO of ECOtality. "This partnership will enhance the customer experience for EV drivers by enabling them to charge up at Blink charging stations while enjoying low prices at Walmart's convenient and recognizable locations."

Walmart joins a growing roster of national and regional partners who are participating in the robust data collection project. The EV Project's goal is to collect the data which will help guide the implementation of EV infrastructure to support the next wave of EVs. The Blink Network of charging stations provides EV drivers the freedom to travel as they choose and conveniently charge at Blink commercial locations along the way. EV drivers will be able to charge at any Blink station through a variety of options including interoperable RFID cards, smartphone applications, and mobile phone and credit card-based payment options. By becoming Blink Members, consumers may also yield even greater advantages of the Blink Network, such as discounted charging rates, reservation systems, and enhanced Blink Network capabilities. ECOtality is the project manager of The EV Project and is overseeing the installation of approximately 14,000 commercial and residential charging stations in 18 major cities and metropolitan areas in six states and the District of Columbia. The project will provide EV infrastructure to support the deployment of 8,300 EVs and is a public-private partnership, funded in part by the U.S. Department of Energy through a federal stimulus grant made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

RF Technology Integration Helps Tampa Bay Lightning Drive Fan Loyalty And Ticket Sales

NCR recently completed a successful integration of radio frequency (RF) technology with the Quest Venue Management software solution and the Tampa Bay Lightning's hockey jerseys, to help drive sales and loyalty at games. NCR worked with Tampa Bay Lightning to roll out the program, which required installation of 10,000 RF chips into exclusive season ticket holder jerseys and the integration of approximately 250 RF readers into the Quest terminals throughout the arena. Full season ticket members are rewarded with the exclusive jersey, enabling them to get discounts on food, beverages and retail items when wearing the jersey at home games. Discounts are delivered when the RF chip, embedded into the sleeve of the jersey, is scanned with the RF reader at checkout at a concession stand or in the retail store. Since implementing the program the Lightning have seen a significant increase in demand for full season tickets and a sea of blue jerseys in the stands at home games.

"This innovative technology enables us to track and identify spending patterns and preferences of our season ticket members to help us provide even better service," said Brad Lott, executive vice president of sales and marketing, Tampa Bay Lightning. "Our season ticket members absolutely love their new jerseys and are taking advantage of the discounts provided exclusively to them."

Cost Plus World Market Partners With Paramount Pictures "The Adventures Of Tintin"

Cost Plus World Market has partnered with Paramount Pictures in the release of the highly anticipated movie, The Adventures of Tintin. Based on the series of books and comic strips by the legendary Belgian artist Hergé, the movie will make its U.S. theatrical. World Market has licensed a line of The Adventures of Tintin products that reflect the spirit of one of Europe's most beloved characters.

As a specialty retailer whose buyers travel the globe to bring unique, authentic and affordable items to the customer, World Market is a perfect partner to The Adventures of Tintin, which embodies the spirit of travel, adventure and exploration. To support the promotion, World Market will give one customer the chance to win a trip for two to Europe, a $1,000 World Market gift card and Tintin merchandise through its The Adventures of Tintin sweepstakes. The grand prize European vacation will take the winner and a guest to Berlin, Brussels, Amsterdam and Paris, cities representing European locales that Tintin explores in his adventures. Beginning early December, World Market will carry unique The Adventures of Tintin merchandise, including Belgian chocolates and candies, cookie gift tins, hot cocoa mix, chocolate chai tea from the Republic of Tea, ceramic mugs, drink tumblers, lunchboxes, pressed tin wall art and movie poster canvasses-all featuring the film's characters.

Hardee's Launches Hand-Breaded Buffalo Chicken Tenders And Sandwich With Frank's RedHot Sauce

Hardee's is partnering with Frank's® RedHot® Sauce, renowned by many as the original, and still the best, Buffalo wing sauce. Hardee's is expanding its popular line-up of Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders™ and Chicken Fillet Sandwiches, which are freshly prepared, battered and breaded by-hand in each and every restaurant throughout the day, then dipped in Frank's® RedHot® Sauce. "Our customers definitely appreciate the taste and quality of our Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders and Sandwiches because they're made the way you'd make them at home…if you had the time and the energy, that is," said Brad Haley, chief marketing officer for Hardee's. "So, we wanted to kick them up a notch in time for the holidays with the authentic taste of Buffalo chicken wings by dipping them in that one-of-a-kind Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce. Some places will squirt a Buffalo-style sauce on chicken sandwiches and strips and call them 'Buffalo' but if you don't use Frank's and you don't dip them to coat every nook and cranny with sauce, you'll never get that true tangy burn that make Buffalo wings popular around the globe." The Hand-Breaded Buffalo Chicken Tenders and Sandwich are available at participating Hardee's locations, and will also be available at sister chain, Carl's Jr.®.

Kodak Teams With LifePics To Streamline Online Photo Merchandizing For Retailers

Eastman Kodak Company has entered a partnership with Boulder, Colo.-based LifePics, a market leader in web-based fulfillment of photo merchandizing products, to jointly develop and market a suite of pre-integrated retail photo merchandizing services. The new services allow photo retailers to leverage their existing fleets of Kodak photofinishing equipment to quickly and cost effectively enter the net-to-retail fulfillment business, and offer consumers the convenience of ordering photos online, and picking them up the same day at the retail location.

The net-to-retail order fulfillment path for photo merchandise is growing steadily in the U.S. The Kodak and LifePics partnership allows retailers who have made an investment in Kodak in-store equipment to participate in this market, adding value to their existing KODAK Product fleet, and enhancing their portfolios of premium photo products that can be fulfilled in-store or offsite. Retailers seeking to implement online photo services can take advantage of a pre-integrated net-to-retail order fulfillment solution. The new service uses LifePics-enabled private label photo merchandizing web sites and Kodak's net-to-retail connectivity installed on a KODAK Picture Kiosk or KODAK Adaptive Picture Exchange (APEX) minilab (running V5.0 software or higher) to fulfill online orders in-store for products such as photo books, greeting cards, calendars collages, and photos.

"Consumers want the ability to place orders online and pick them up in-store," said Larry Trevarthen, Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Retail Systems Solutions, Eastman Kodak Company. "LifePics' market-leading web-based photo services running on Kodak's retail systems is an efficient, cost effective way for retailers to deliver the value and convenience of net-to-retail photo ordering for consumers."

Ivana B Skinny Cocktails Enter Market

Launched by importer International Spirits, LLC, Ivana B Skinny cocktails are wine-based, producing a sweeter taste with lower calories. Available in Margarita, Cosmopolitan and Appletini flavors with more on the way, these cocktails feature a full 10% alcohol, and all less than 100 calories per 5-ounce serving, compared to most brands that have higher calorie counts per serving. "We wanted our product to appeal to women who want flavor, who love to entertain and aren't simply swayed by a celebrity name," said Chief Marketing Officer Pete Helow. "And because it's wine-based, we're able to sell the product in grocery stores and convenience stores that sell beer and wine making it more convenient for customers."

New Passport Media Player By Johnson Health Tech Brings World's Best Running Paths Indoors

Johnson Health Tech North America has introduced a new breed of consumer treadmills equipped with the all-new Passport™ media player featuring Virtual Active™ technology. The new treadmills deliver a high-definition workout experience designed to enhance the cardio workout of serious runners. Unlike machines that offer mock virtual trainers or a generic scenic view, Passport offers the only workout experience with real destination footage and matching ambient sounds. Connecting to home entertainment systems, Passport displays workout data on-screen while taking the user on a journey through truly stunning destinations. By means of "equipment interactivity," Passport takes the audio/visual technology one step further by communicating wirelessly to match speed and elevation between screen and treadmill. The LSPRO2 and AFG 7.1 AT with Passport are available at specialty retailers and select national retailers.

Pacific World Displays SensatioNail Gel Manicure

Pacific World, a leading supplier of nail and beauty care products, has launched SensatioNail™ Invincible Gel Polish, a premium collection of at-home gel polish products that will provide users with up to two weeks of damage-proof wear. SensatioNail is debuting at mass retailers with the launch of the SensatioNail Starter Kit. The brand’s patented polymer technology allows the polish to glide on smoothly, while the compact PRO 3060 LED Lamp harnesses LED light technology to flash harden SensatioNail gel polish to a radiant finish, with zero dry time. The brand will follow the launch with the release of 12 fashion forward SensatioNail Invincible Gel Polish colors. “As consumer focus has shifted to at-home, DIY products, we are thrilled to bring such an innovative product line to the market place,” said Marwan Zreik, SensatioNail VP, Marketing.

New Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed Teeth Whitening System Offers Adjustable Settings

Philips, the makers of Sonicare power toothbrushes, has introduced the Zoom WhiteSpeed Light-Activated Whitening System, which offers different intensity settings that allow dentists to make adjustments for patients who may experience sensitivity during the whitening process, giving patients comfort while still providing the results they expect. The new light is proven to whiten teeth up to 8 shades in just 45 minutes - the ultimate treatment for today's time-constrained women and men. Using blue LED technology that emits the optimal light spectrum, Zoom WhiteSpeed accelerates and enhances whitening results with no compromise to safety.

Pizza Hut Offers Instant Crowd Support During Holidays With Launch Of Big Dinner Box

Feeding a crowd this holiday season just got a whole lot easier - and more affordable - thanks to the launch of Pizza Hut's new Big Dinner Box, an epic-sized box filled with two medium rectangular one-topping pizzas, eight wings and five breadsticks for only $19.99. The Big Dinner Box from Pizza Hut is one of the pizza category's first ever value boxes offering a combination of pizza and side items in a single package and is available for a limited time at participating Pizza Hut restaurants.

Primo Water Debuts Flavorstation Custom Beverage Maker

Primo Water, a leading producer of innovative beverage solutions, has introduced the Primo Flavorstation™, a healthy home beverage maker that allows users to create fresh, 100 percent naturally flavored beverages at the touch of a button. Primo Flavorstation allows users to customize and create delicious, naturally flavored sodas, fruit sparklers, fruit flavored teas, zero-calorie sodas and energy drinks without high-fructose corn syrup. The stylish, yet functional appliance is the perfect addition to any modern day kitchen or office. Primo Flavorstation requires no electricity. The Sparkling Beverage Mixes are used with Primo's innovative pump system to avoid spills and create a consistently great tasting beverage each and every time.

"The Primo Flavorstation proves you can deliver great tasting sodas and sparkling beverages that are better for you and better for the environment," said Billy Prim, chairman and CEO of Primo Water Corporation."By combining our ultra-pure, great tasting Primo water with the revolutionary Primo Flavorstation, we will change the way people consume beverages for the better."

POM Wonderful Launches POM POMS Fresh Arils

POM Wonderful, the largest US grower of fresh pomegranates and producer of pomegranate juice, makes enjoying pomegranates easier this season with the launch of POM POMS, a convenient, ready-to-eat package of ruby red arils from California-grown Wonderful variety pomegranates, available nationally in the fresh cut-fruit section of most major grocery stores through February. The introduction of POM POMS provides easy access to the fruit while expanding pomegranates to a wider market of consumers. "POM POMS makes enjoying pomegranates easier than ever especially for time-starved consumers who are always on the go," said Laurie McCartney, CMO of POM Wonderful. "With the pop of a lid, POM POMS eliminates the need to understand how to open the fruit and offers a simple, fun way to enjoy all the benefits of Wonderful variety pomegranates."

Sleep Number Creates AirFit Adjustable Pillow

Sleep Number is taking personalization to an entirely new level with the launch of its exclusive, new Sleep Number® AirFit™ Adjustable Pillow. The AirFit Adjustable Pillow combines the support and comfort of air with the innovation of adjustability to provide the most personalized pillow and sleep experience possible. The AirFit Adjustable Pillow is available in three options for additional personalization based on sleep preference. CoolFit™ Foam: Gel technology works within memory foam to create a cooler, more comfortable sleeping experience. The conforming comfort of memory foam is improved by gel, which adds a layer of support that distributes weight more evenly to ease pressure points. Memory Fiber: Memory Fiber provides improved air circulation to help prevent heat buildup. Memory Fiber continually adjusts to head and neck movement to offer constant support. European White Goose Down: Resilient down clusters offer exceptionally high loft and improved support for maximum comfort. Hypoallergenic down is free of dust and allergy-causing impurities.

Samsung Introduces Advanced LED Light Bulbs With Energy Efficient, Natural-Looking Light

Samsung Electronics America has introduced Samsung's first LED lighting solutions for the U.S. consumer market. Available through Lowe's, Samsung's initial product lineup for U.S. households includes A19, PAR20/30/38 and MR16 bulbs-all designed to easily replace traditional incandescent, halogen and CFL bulbs throughout the home. A19 Bulbs: Samsung's A19 bulb is a directional bulb that is sized to easily replace a conventional incandescent bulb in any fixture where directional light is needed, from certain lamps to vanity lights and wall sconces. Because it is fully dimmable, consumers can recognize even more energy savings by selecting the most appropriate brightness depending on the time of day or the task at hand. PAR Bulbs: Samsung's dimmable PAR replacement bulbs last 20 times longer than their equivalent halogen bulbs and are well suited for track and recessed lighting. MR16 Bulbs: Samsung's MR16 bulbs are ideal for track, recessed and vanity lighting, and are offered in two different base types and brightness levels to accommodate a wide range of applications.

"A light bulb is no longer just a light bulb. It's a digital technology made up of LED chips, drivers and electronics-familiar turf for Samsung," said Kevin Dexter, Samsung's senior vice president of Home Appliances. "Using the same digital expertise that brings true-to-life depth and crispness to Samsung's latest LED TVs, we are now bringing light with true-to-nature tones to any room in the home, any time of the day."

Maxell Introduces Next Generation Low Temperature Lithium Ion Technology

With the high demand for low temperature rechargeable applications, Maxell Corporation of America has introduced a rechargeable lithium ion battery designed with superior capacity in low temperatures. Offering a long run time and excellent cycle life, the battery also features an enhanced safety design with heat resistant separator and is UL/UNDOT certified. With a discharge temperature range of -30 degrees to +60 degrees C and 2300mAh capacity, the cell is designed to meet the needs of many markets such as RFID asset tracking, data capture, mobile computing, portable printing, communications, e-bike, and garden tool.

Innergie Magic Cables Integrate USB And Apple Tips To Charge Portable Electronic Devices

Innergie, a world leading provider of innovative consumer power solutions, is introducing two new power cables that are certified for use with all iOS portable devices including iPad, iPhone, and iPod, as well as more than 10,000 other portable devices with USB connections. Innergie's unique Magic Cable Duo and Trio provide consumers with the only portable charging cable they will ever need for all their portable electronic devices. The Magic Cable Duo integrates a certified Apple tip and Micro USB tip in one cable, while the Magic Cable Trio provides an additional Mini USB tip to charge digital cameras, MP3 players, and a variety of portable GPS devices.

"Innergie's Magic Cable Duo and Trio power cables are the only power cable solution consumers will need to charge nearly every portable device they own, including their iPhone, iPad, and iPod," said Tom Atkinson, Senior Director of Americas at Innergie.

Brondell Introduces Affordable Hi-Tech Toilet Seat

The modern designed Swash 300 is the newest generation in Brondell's family of advanced bidet toilet seats. Operated by an intuitive wireless remote control, the Swash 300 offers an aerated warm water wash through its anti-bacterial dual nozzle system that is both adjustable in pressure and temperature. For the ultimate in comfort, the Swash 300 is equipped with a luxurious adjustable heated seat with an integrated slow closing "slam free" seat and lid. This Japanese style bidet seat is available in both round and elongated sizes to fit nearly all standard fixtures. This seat is positioned specifically for the first time bidet user in the North American market.

City Sports Names Debi Binder V.P. Marketing

City Sports has appointed Debi Binder to Vice President of Marketing. Binder will lead all brand marketing efforts, including growing its customer base and driving exposure and traffic to the company's 20 retail locations and web site. Binder has held senior marketing positions with Comcast Media and Timberland. She most recently served as a senior vice president for CCA Global Partners, leading marketing efforts for the retailer.

Andrew Ross Joins ConAgra Foods As EVP And Chief Strategy Officer

ConAgra Foods has named Andrew George Ross as executive vice president and chief strategy officer. Ross will lead the company's strategic planning process, with specific responsibility for developing strategies that align with the company's growth ambitions. Prior to joining ConAgra Foods, Ross was a partner at McKinsey & Company, where he led the firm's global consumer, retail and marketing practices.

Foxwoods Resort Casino Names Rebecca Carr CMO

Foxwoods Resort Casino has named Rebecca Carr Chief Marketing Officer. Prior to joining Foxwoods, Carr was Vice President of Global Marketing at Verizon Business where she led the company's marketing initiatives targeted to national and multi-national businesses.

John Hancock Names David Longfritz CMO

John Hancock Financial has appointed David Longfritz Chief Marketing Officer, a new position at the company. As Chief Marketing Officer, Longfritz is responsible for brand communication functions and for developing new strategies to help John Hancock's insurance and wealth management business units achieve their objectives. Previously Longfritz served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of John Hancock's Retirement Income & Rollover Solutions (RIRS) unit.

Tequila Avión Appoints Sam Spencer V.P. Marketing

Tequila Avión has appointed Sam Spencer as Vice President of Marketing. Spencer comes to Avión from consumer products giant Unilever, where he served in various strategic marketing capacities for nine years. "Sam is a smart, creative thinker with nearly a decade of experience in building large consumer brands," said Tequila Avión President Jenna Fagnan. "We're excited to have him lead an innovative communications plan that will play a critical role in helping us become the next big lifestyle brand in the spirits business."

EPIX Names Kirk Iwanowski CMO

EPIX, the premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service owned by Viacom (its Paramount Pictures unit), Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Lionsgate, has appointed Kirk Iwanowski CMO. Iwanowski will be responsible for developing and executing marketing strategy and campaigns designed to build a following for EPIX movies and programs among consumers, affiliates and industry partners. Iwanowski was previously SVP of Marketing at FilmDistrict. Prior to joining FilmDistrict, Iwanowski held the position of EVP, Marketing, Branded Entertainment & Sponsorship for Sundance Channel.

Ryan Gellert Promoted To Black Diamond Equipment Brand President

Black Diamond, a leading global provider of outdoor recreation equipment and active lifestyle products, has promoted Ryan Gellert to the newly established position of Black Diamond Equipment brand president. Gellert previously held the position of vice president of Black Diamond supply chain management.

Testrite Visual Products Offers EasyGraphic Gripper™

Testrite Visual Products has introduced new re-designed Arctop Signholders, which securely hold graphics with Testrite’s EasyGraphic Gripper™. Two different styles are offered: units with lenses, and bases only, with no lenses (accepts graphics up to 3/32" thick). Small Base sizes are 4" deep, Large Base sizes are 6" deep. The Arctop Signholders feature Aluminum alloy bases, and Satin or Matte Black finishes. For more information, contact Testrite Visual Products, 216 South Newman St., Hackensack, NJ 07601; (Tel) 201-543-0240; (Web site) www.testrite.com

Outwater Plastics Introduces SunRay LED T5 Fixture

Outwater Plastics has introduced the SunRay LED T5 Fixture. Comparable in size and appearance to a T5 fluorescent, Outwater’s new fully dimmable SunRay LED Lighting is one of the most energy efficient and cost effective LED lights available. Outwater’s ultra bright 5/8" diameter SunRay LED Lighting comprises a sturdy aluminum housing with a frosted lens that can be readily mounted to wood, metal or glass for use in showcases, cabinets, store fixtures, freezercases and wall units. For more information, contact Outwater Plastics, P.O. Box 500, Bogota, NJ 07603; (Tel) 800-631-8375; (Web site) www.outwater.com

Above All Advertising Prints QR Codes On ABA-Tex Adhesive Fabric Substrate

Above All Advertising prints QR codes on its removable and reusable ABA-Tex Adhesive fabric substrate. The ABA-Tex Adhesive QR codes can be placed on all types of surfaces, including windows, for point-of-purchase and event promotions. This weather and wind resistant material is removable and will adhere and re-adhere without peeling or wrinkling to any and all flat surfaces and all weather conditions. The ABA Tex™ is great for outdoor as well as indoor use. For more information, contact Above All Advertising, 6980 Corte Santa Fe, San Diego, CA 92121; (Tel) 866-552-2683; (Web site) www.abovealladvertising.com

Midway Displays Offers Five Tier Tray Merchandiser

Midway Displays offers a five tier tray merchandiser created with a My-D® Max 8™Rotor, 6 8" J-Hooks,3 Black 18" Diameter My-D® Trays, 71" 3pc Zinc Plated Pole Set, and My-D® 20 Weighted Plastic Floor Base. This display provides a distinctive look from economical stock display components. The versatile display system can be used for all types of products. For more information, contact Midway Displays, 6554 S Austin Ave., Bedford Park, IL 60638; (Tel) 708-563-2323; (Web site) www.midwaydisplays.com

Lilitab Introduces iPad Kiosk

The new Apple-approved Lilipad Kiosk turns any iPad into an elegant self-service Point Of Sale system with integrated card swiping for retailers, restaurants, or hotels. The Lilipad Kiosk secure iPad enclosure provides a self-service POS system, and rich content distribution to customer's fingertips. The Lilipad prevents fraudulent access to customer's credit card data by being the only iPad enclosure with a completely integrated magnetic stripe reader. All of the Lilipad enclosure options prevent theft and tampering of the iPads with integral locks and mount points that allow for bolting to a floor, counter-top or wall. The Lilipad is Apple approved; the rigorous testing ensures compliance with iPad warranties and radio transparency to eliminate wifi, cell or Bluetooth signal interference. The Lilipad is the only iPad card reader enclosure with pass-through power. Just plug it in to a standard power outlet and leave it. The Lilipad can be configured in multiple mounting options (table top, wall mount, counter top or floor stand) and can be used in landscape or portrait orientation. By adding logos or changing colors or textures on the Lilipad, a consistent brand image for each company can be created. The Lilipad offers the most flexible options for branding and marketing graphics including a 10" wide printed banner, a formed Sintra surround or a 10" x 6' composite backdrop panel. For more information, contact Lilipad Kiosk LLC, (Tel) 888.705.0190.(Web site) www.lilitab.com

Kiosk Group Offers Newly-Modified Collection Of IPad Kiosks

Kiosk Group is now offering its newly-modified collection of iPad kiosks designed to comply with the new ADA requirements. On March 15, 2012 the new standards will become required by Federal law. Kiosk Group offers four models of its designer iPad kiosks: the Standalone kiosk, the Standard and Low-Rise Countertop kiosks, and the elegant Wall kiosk. "The new regulations lower the maximum reach for height from 54 to 48 inches. That's not very high," said Jer Schweickart, Kiosk Designer. "The average American adult is 67.5 inches tall. We calculated the correct screen angle to work the best for all heights -- six-footers to wheelchair-bound users." For more information on the newly-modified Kiosk Group iPad kiosks, visit, (Web site) www.ipadkiosks.com

Holman Creates Exhibit For First Capital Realty

ICSC , the International Council of Shopping Centers' Canadian Convention was recently held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Holman Exhibits worked with exhibitor First Capital Realty and created a custom 50 x 20 island exhibit that was designed to reflect the company's modern and streamlined look of their properties. The exhibit combined a modern feel with wood and glass with the natural look of stone and grass. A spectacular boardroom was created using glass panels etched in a vine motif which reflects the design used in First Capital's collateral materials. The pattern was continued on the graphic back panels keeping a flow to the exhibit. A 16-foot tower showcased the First Capital logo as well as the western, eastern and central regions various properties with literature racking for material distribution. Three touch screen monitors surrounded the tower and made information easily accessible to the visitors to the booth. Café style chairs and tables staged the center area as a conversation space. (Web site) www.holmanexhibits.com

ExpoDisplays Offers MultiQuad® MediaKiosks

ExpoDisplays has launched its newest product line, MultiQuad® MediaKiosks. Supporting a variety of LCD monitors, the new kiosks are ideal for retail locations and high traffic areas such as tradeshows and events, or anywhere video advertising is needed. MultiQuadMedia Kiosks support multiple various sized LCD TVs including up to two 42" horizontal, up to four 24" vertical and up to six 19" horizontal LCD TVs. All monitors are held flush with the structure so that only the screens are visible for a custom finished look.Options include a canopy/light system and a shelf system that holds up to 50lbs of product or brochures. The lightweight aluminum frames of the Media Kiosk are easy to reposition, pack and ship. The outside of the MultiQuad Media Kiosks consist of Quads®, precision-cutsquare panels that can be virtually any color, finish or image. Quads changeout in seconds for the slightest change in a message or even a whole new look. For more information on ExpoDisplays' new MultiQuad Media Kiosks, visit (Web site) www.multiquad.com

The American Society of Welding (AWS) Creates Careers in Welding Trailer

The American Society of Welding (AWS) says the number of welders in the United States will fall nearly 240,000 short of the need by 2019. To address this looming shortage, AWS has launched the "Careers in Welding Trailer," a traveling exhibit that will tour the country inspiring and educating young people about careers in welding. The 53-foot, single-expandable trailer, which features 650 square feet of exhibit space, was designed and built by Madison Heights, Mich.,-based MRA experiential tours and equipment. The exhibit recently launched at the FABTECH trade show in Chicago and will be on the road for 18-24 weeks in 2012, targeting events with youth between the ages of 13 and 19 and adults searching for a second career. The trailer's five Lincoln Electric VRTEX® 360 simulator stations are the highlight of the exhibit. The VRTEX 360 feeds computer-generated data with a virtual welding gun and helmet equipped with internal monitors. The participant practices welding in virtual environments, including simulated welding-booth training environments or field-welding applications. "Welding is central to the business of building MRA's mobile experiential tours, so the American Welding Society and this educational outreach effort is near and dear to us," said Harry Kurtz, MRA's president and CEO. "We're pleased to help promote these vital career opportunities - which can be very lucrative - to help build a better future for America." (Web site) www.goMRA.com

Toyota Exhibit At LA Auto Show Provides Interactive Experiences

Toyota Motor Sales is providing visitors to the Los Angeles Auto Show social and mobile activities that allow them to experience the show in new and unique ways while engaging with the brand at and around the Los Angeles Convention Center. Equipped with a smartphone and a new mobile app from Toyota, auto show attendees could easily navigate a host of interactive and experiential programs sponsored by the brand during the show's public days. In addition, the 30,000-square-foot Toyota booth showcases the latest Toyota models. "Auto shows are becoming much more experiential events for consumers and provide brands with a great opportunity to leverage social media and mobile technology to engage with visitors both on-site and beyond," said Keith Dahl, national manager of engagement marketing and motorsports, Toyota Motor Sales.

Smash Hit Displays Creates TK6 Trusskit Trade Show Truss Displays

A new line of truss displays have been added by Smash Hit Displays called the TK6 Trusskit Trade Show Truss Displays. These truss structures come in a variety of hardware colors, which is very different from the traditional trade show trusses. Computer controlled laser cutting is used to create the innovative configurations found from the TK6 Trusskit Show Booths. These trade show displays come in several sizes, all of which use knob and pin connectors for a fast and easy assembly. These truss displays also have several trade show accessories that can be added to create a more personalized look, including table top tables, graphics, and shelves. (Web site) www.smashhitdisplays.com

Nintendo Promotes Mario Kart 7 At LA Auto Show

Nintendo has teamed up with West Coast Customs to create life-size models of two karts - one for Mario™ and one for Luigi™ - from the upcoming Mario Kart 7 video game for the portable Nintendo 3DS™ system. These unique electric vehicles were unveiled at the LA Auto Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Visitors attending the show were able to take photos of the karts, sample the Mario Kart 7 game before its Dec. 4 launch and participate in multiplayer game play. West Coast Customs re-created two vehicles from Mario Kart 7: the classic Mario Standard kart, complete with glider attachment for soaring through the air, and the Luigi Bumble V kart, which resembles a bumblebee and features a rear propeller for underwater navigation. (Web site) www.westcoastcustoms.com

Michelob ULTRA And Lance Armstrong Team Up To Raise Funds For World Bicycle Relief

Michelob ULTRA and Lance Armstrong recently partnered to support World Bicycle Relief, an organization that designs quality and sturdy bicycles for people living in sub Saharan Africa, helping them access education, health care and independence. Michelob ULTRA is donating ten cents to World Bicycle Relief every time a consumer purchases a 12-, 18-, 20- or 24-pack, with a maximum donation of $25,000.

"We're proud to support World Bicycle Relief's mission of providing the independence and benefits of cycling to those in need," said Ryan Moore, senior director, Michelob ULTRA. "There's no better time of the year to come together to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those less fortunate."

Adspace Installs Its First-Ever Interactive Digital Mall Directory In Premier Malls And Outlet Locations

Adspace Digital Mall Network, owner of the largest in-mall digital advertising network in the country, has launched its first-ever Smart Screen Digital Directory in select malls throughout its national network. The Smart Screen Digital Directory features the latest touchscreen technology, and has been deployed in Westgate Mall in Boston and Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, both new malls to the Adspace Digital Mall Network. Features of the directory include robust search functionality that allows shoppers to search by store name or category. Once a destination is chosen, a line draws out the path from the user's current location to the requested destination.

"This is a logical product extension for Adspace Networks. It's what the mall developers and editorial partners have been asking for," said Bill Ketcham, executive vice president and CMO, Adspace Networks. "We aim to be the one-stop resource for the best deals in the mall - and now we can show shoppers how to navigate to them." (Web site) www.adspacenetworks.com

GoGo Cast Partners With GoLocal24 For Content On Go-Screens

GoGo Cast, a global leader in dynamic content and digital merchandising in the Digital Out of Home space, has formed an in-store collaboration with GoLocal24, which allows GoGo Cast's unique, industry-leading dynamic digital sign and advertising solutions to run GoLocal's all original and all local news, lifestyle, sports, and weather headlines in their vast array of locations in Southeastern New England. GoGo Cast has more than 700 Go-Screens nationally reaching more than 24,000,000 viewers per month. GoLocal content will be running on the 195 Go-Screens in Southern New England reaching more than 6,700,000 viewers per month.

GoGo Cast's Go-Screens offer a unique digital experience for consumers in-store. It offers consumers offers both from advertising and now the most up-to-date advertising solution in-stores by providing significant and useful information to engage customers. GoGo Cast's retailers like Gulf Oil's network of dealers, Shell Stations, and XtraMart Convenience stores will be providing real-time news via GoLocal. The ability to reach a captive in-store audience by delivering practical and effective messages at precisely the right time to enhance the customer's experience at point-of-purchase sets GoGo Cast apart. The elite digital displays enhance customers' in-store experience and help them make smart purchasing decisions and have a greater awareness of sale prices and special promotions. (Web site) www.gogocast.com

STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition To Premiere At Montreal Science Center

STAR WARSTM Identities, a redefined modern exhibition experience, made possible by Lucasfilm Ltd. and produced by Montreal's X3 Productions, will make use of an extensive collection from the Lucasfilm Archives to explore the sciences of identity through the characters of Star Wars. The world premiere of this exhibition will be held at the Montréal Science Centre, starting on April 19, 2012.

Kyra Bowling, Exhibits Manager at Lucasfilm, said, "The Star Wars saga continues to captivate audiences who find connection to its richly diverse cast of wonderful characters. This innovative exhibition lets visitors of all ages investigate, in a fun and educational way, the factors and forces that help shape who we are as individuals."

A vast and exclusive collection of close to 200 objects from the Lucasfilm Archives features props, models, costumes, and artwork from the Star Wars films. This rich collection spans the entire Star Wars canon, drawing from the classic (1977-83) and prequel (1999-2005) trilogies, as well as the animated feature The Clone Wars (2008) and the ongoing television series of the same name. Fan favourites like Darth Vader, R2-D2, Chewbacca, Boba Fett, Yoda, the Millennium Falcon, and Anakin Skywalker's full-sized Podracer - among others - are sure to delight visitors of all generations. STAR WARS Identities will place the visitor at the centre of the exhibition experience with an interactive identity quest that spans the duration of the visit. Closely interwoven with the collection and the educational content, this unique interactive experience will use technology to help visitors of all ages create their own personal and original Star Wars identity by incorporating elements of their own identity with fictional elements. Visitors will then leave with their own unique character inspired by the Star Wars universe and with a deeper understanding of the exhibition's central theme.

Shopkick Rewards Visa Cardholders When And Where They Shop

Visa and shopkick, a mobile app that rewards consumers for simply walking into stores, have joined forces so that cardholders can now qualify for valuable rewards just for paying with Visa. Shopkick now lets mobile users earn more redeemable kicksTM by choosing to link their eligible Visa debit or credit card into its new Buy & Collect program and then making qualifying purchases at participating shopkick merchants with the linked card. Shopkick users have the option to earn more rewards while shopping in their favorite stores and merchants can increase sales and better measure the effectiveness of their location-based marketing efforts. "Through our relationship with Visa, we have closed the loop - rewarding shoppers at every step of the shopping process from discovery to purchase. No one else is doing that. We combine our popular walk-in rewards with rewards for purchase," said Cyriac Roeding, co-founder and CEO of shopkick. "Shoppers get more rewards, and our retail partners get more shoppers and purchases- all made possible through the Visa network - it equals a win-win-win."

Shopkick aims to dramatically improve consumers' shopping experiences in-store by offering an award-winning app that rewards them just for walking in. At the core of the mobile shopping app is the patent-pending Shopkick Signal ultra-precise location technology, which lets the user's shopkick app detect its presence in enrolled stores accurately and seamlessly, automatically crediting rewards to the right account, and delivering offers relevant to that retail location. Now, through Visa's real-time messaging platform, shopkick merchants can offer Visa cardholders rewards not only for visiting and browsing in a store, but also for making qualifying purchases while they are in the store. Registered shoppers will qualify for Buy & Collect offers such as "spend $40 and receive 250 kicks," while they are in the store. The first shopkick merchants offering Buy & Collect include American Eagle Outfitters, Arden B., Old Navy, Toys"R"Us, and Wet Seal - available immediately in participating shopkick locations. (Web site) www.shopkick.com

ScanLife App Updated For More Immersive Shopping Experience

Scanbuy, a global leader in mobile barcode solutions, has introduced ScanLife 4.0, a new version of its mobile barcode reader application. With ScanLife 4.0, shoppers can now view a live feed that displays codes being scanned in real-time from around the world. A user can simply click on a product to view valuable information including prices, product reviews and deals.

New features include: A live feed of products being scanned around the world in real-time; Options for personalizing scanners with different themes, such as "Top Gun" or "Holiday Cheer"; Access to additional product reviews from retailers like Best Buy and price comparisons from Buy.com; Access to nutritional facts and ingredients directly from a variety of brands; Capability to share deals and product discoveries on Facebook and Twitter; A completely redesigned user interface for reviewing product information; and Faster scanning rates. To celebrate this new release, Scanbuy is giving away gift cards to reward shoppers as they are scanning UPC codes. For 16 days, shoppers who scan any UPC code with their ScanLife app can instantly win gift cards worth thousands of dollars. (Web site) www.scanbuy.com

Prysm's Laser Phosphor Display Transforms Barneys New York Window Into Gaga's Workshop

Digital display innovator Prysm's Laser Phosphor Display (LPD) technology was selected recently to help transform the windows at Barneys New York Madison Avenue flagship store into "Gaga's Workshop." a unique take on Santa's iconic holiday workshop. Among the holiday window displays inspired by Lady Gaga and designed in collaboration with Nicola Formichetti, Prysm's curved 8-foot by 5-foot video-wall is featured in the sole digital installation of Gaga's Workshop. Titled "Gaga Constellation" and located in a street-level window next to the store's front door, Prysm's LPD wall provides a display platform that engages and interacts with Barneys' shoppers and passers-by. The LPD wall features live Twitter messages sent by Barneys' customers and the general public. Selected for Prysm's seamless, vibrant, captivating display imagery, the LPD video-wall illuminates and brings the "Gaga Constellation" window to life. With social media being an important communication tool for Lady Gaga and her fans, incorporating live messages via Twitter was an instrumental part of this campaign that Prysm's LPD video-wall makes possible. Inspired by the theme "message in a bottle" Gaga fans, Barneys' customers and passers-by are invited to spread holiday cheer and send Tweets that will be displayed on Prysm's video-wall to transform the "Gaga Constellation" window into an interactive experience. (Web site) www.prysm.com

PromoWorks Names Julie Beck EVP, Sales And Marketing

PromoWorks, an innovative leader of insights-driven shopper marketing solutions and strategic shopper engagement, has appointed Julie Beck to Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Beck brings over 20 years of sales and marketing experience with Fortune 500 companies including Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, and most recently Kraft Foods, where she developed and led shopper marketing strategies for Kraft's billion dollar business at Supervalu. (Web site) www.PromoWorks.com

Outcast's Pumptop TV Partners With NFL Network To Provide Programming For On-The-Go Viewers

Outcast, the largest television network at the pump, has partnered with the NFL Network to broadcast NFL content to over 12,000 screens nationwide. NFL Network is the only television network dedicated entirely to football, and the addition of NFL Network programming on PumpTop TV aligns perfectly with active fuel consumers who are avid football fans. Outcast viewers will be able to enjoy new game highlights each week, including previews of upcoming games. Outcast reaches drivers and understands and tailors programming to meet the needs of the active on-the-go consumer. Fans can now catch up on NFL Network news and highlights at Outcast gas stations around the country. (Web site) www.outcast.net

Old Orchard Juice Adds 'Instant Rewards' Coupons To One Million Juice Bottles

Old Orchard Brands is turning the juice aisle of the grocery store into a treasure trove of rewards as new bottles of Old Orchard Brands juice begin appearing carrying an "instant rewards" sticker redeemable for a number of Old Orchard Brand prizes via its Fan Club site at www.oldorchard.com/club.

Each bottle will carry an instant 100 points reward that can be applied towards free product, coupons, apparel and gear. In addition, reward points can be redeemed as a cash donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Users must register for a Fan Club account in order to redeem reward points. (Web site) www.oldorchard.com

iSIGN Selects BroadSign's Digital Signage Software To Manage Network Of 5,600 Screens At Major Convenience Store Chain

iSIGN Media Solutions is partnering with BroadSign International, a worldwide provider of software-as-a-service for digital signage, to manage networked digital displays in Couche-Tard's convenience stores. iSIGN, through its subsidiary Pinpoint Media Group, operates the network of advertising and promotional screens within the Couche-Tard chain of approximately 1,400 convenience stores in Canada. This network is the largest owner/operator network of in-store digital media in Canada. Once the installation of our Interactive Massaging Solutions ("IMS") software is completed, this network will be the world's largest fully interactive digital signage network.

Each convenience store has 2 to 3 screens installed at the point of sale, running brand loyalty programs, public service announcements and in-store promotions. BroadSign's digital signage software allows iSIGN to schedule and playback content on each screen, manage updates and monitor network health - doing all this from one central location, with minimal staff. (Web site) www.isignmedia.com

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